China intends to carry out capital punishment on persistent secessionists from Taiwan.
The Chinese authorities in Beijing view Taiwan as an integral part of Chinese territory. A recently passed law emphasizes the importance of maintaining territorial integrity, with strong penalties for those who threaten it through secessionist activities.
China has signaled a tough stance against advocates of Taiwan independence, even suggesting the possibility of capital punishment in extreme cases. According to new guidelines, courts, prosecutors, and state security agencies in China are expected to aggressively enforce laws against secessionist activities, as well as protect national sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity.
A spokesperson from the Chinese Ministry of Public Security told reporters in Beijing that the maximum punishment for secessionism is the death penalty. Taiwan has yet to respond to this announcement made by the Chinese state news agency Xinhua. A government representative stated that the new guidelines are currently under review. China considers the democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory, labeling the current Taiwanese president, Lai Ching-te, as a separatist.
Following Lai's inauguration in May, China conducted military exercises around the island as a form of retaliation for his separatist speech and actions. Lai had emphasized Taiwan's independence during his inauguration, which China interpreted as a declaration of two separate nations. China took control of the mainland in 1949, while Taiwan remains under the control of a previous government.
The USA and other countries offer support to Taiwan, although there is no formal diplomatic recognition due to considerations for China's feelings. The economic implications of Taiwan's role in the semiconductor industry are also significant, with Taiwan being home to the world's largest contract chipmaker, TSMC.
